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Keywords = volatile organic compounds

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21 pages, 5398 KiB  
Article
Enhancing UV-B Protection and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Tomato Plants: The Role of Silicon Nanoparticles in Photosynthetic Parameters, Pigments, and Secondary Metabolite Production
by Florina Copaciu, Cosmin-Alin Faur, Andrea Bunea, Loredana Leopold, Rodica Maria Sima, Mihai Andrei Lăcătuș, Andreea Lupitu, Cristian Moisa, Dana Maria Copolovici and Lucian Copolovici
Plants 2025, 14(16), 2599; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14162599 - 21 Aug 2025
Abstract
Tomato fruit (Solanum lycopersicum) is a valuable agricultural crop worldwide due to its nutritional value and culinary applications, making it one of the most widely consumed vegetables in the human diet. However, excessive solar UV-B radiation represents a significant factor in [...] Read more.
Tomato fruit (Solanum lycopersicum) is a valuable agricultural crop worldwide due to its nutritional value and culinary applications, making it one of the most widely consumed vegetables in the human diet. However, excessive solar UV-B radiation represents a significant factor in decreasing productivity, marketable yields, and fruit quality in tomato crops by causing damage to both DNA and the photosynthetic system, as well as chlorophyll degradation. The application of silicon nanoparticles has been shown to increase tolerance to abiotic stressors, including enhanced UV-B radiation. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the protective effects of foliar silicon nanoparticle (SiNP) application on photosynthetic parameters, photosynthetic pigments, and secondary metabolites under enhanced UV-B stress in tomato plants. Photosynthetic parameters (stomatal conductance to water vapor, net CO2 assimilation rate, transpiration rate, and intercellular CO2 molar fraction), biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), chlorophylls, and carotenoids were evaluated. The application of SiNPs showed beneficial effects on plants grown under ambient UV-B conditions, increasing photosynthetic parameters while also enhancing chlorophyll and carotenoid levels. In plants exposed to enhanced UV-B radiation, SiNP treatment helped to maintain and even improve photosynthetic parameters and stomatal function in leaves while also promoting the accumulation of photosynthetic pigments. Additionally, the application of SiNPs also resulted in a slightly higher content of lycopene and total carotenoids in tomato fruits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)
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17 pages, 8767 KiB  
Article
Investigation on Precursor Aromas and Volatile Compounds During the Fermentation of Blackened Pear Vinegar
by Shangjing Chen, Yuxiao Wang, Xin Sun, Zhizhen Han, Qiyong Jiang, Lin Gao and Rentang Zhang
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2905; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162905 - 21 Aug 2025
Abstract
The acetic acid fermentation stage is a key determinant of fruit vinegar’s aroma profile. Therefore, this study employed GC-MS, HPLC, E-nose and E-tongue techniques, in conjunction with multivariate statistical analysis, to investigate the dynamic changes of compounds during the acetic acid fermentation process [...] Read more.
The acetic acid fermentation stage is a key determinant of fruit vinegar’s aroma profile. Therefore, this study employed GC-MS, HPLC, E-nose and E-tongue techniques, in conjunction with multivariate statistical analysis, to investigate the dynamic changes of compounds during the acetic acid fermentation process of blackened pear vinegar (BPV), as well as the transformation of volatile and non-volatile aroma-active compounds. Results revealed accumulation of organic acids and esters alongside declines in alcohols, aldehydes, and ketones. Isoamyl acetate, benzaldehyde, and nonanal (OAV > 1) were identified as key aroma contributors (VIP > 1, p < 0.05). Total organic acids significantly increased from 4.82 ± 0.53 mg/mL to 10.29 ± 2.38 mg/mL. Correlation analysis revealed a negative relationship between amino acids and volatile compounds, and this negative correlation suggests a possible precursor–product relationship between them. These findings provide theoretical support for the enhancement of fruit vinegar flavor, as well as the application of blackened fruits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Drinks and Liquid Nutrition)
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16 pages, 2633 KiB  
Article
A Comparative Study of Supported Sulfonic Acids Derived from CdO and CaO for the Reactive Adsorption of o-Xylene
by Hongmei Wang, Xiaoxu Zhang, Yifei Niu and Zichuan Ma
Inorganics 2025, 13(8), 275; https://doi.org/10.3390/inorganics13080275 - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
The recovery and control of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have gained significant attention. Supported sulfonic acid materials show potential in converting aromatic VOCs into non-volatile sulfonic acid derivatives. However, their effectiveness is closely tied to the anchoring state of the sulfonic acid groups. [...] Read more.
The recovery and control of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have gained significant attention. Supported sulfonic acid materials show potential in converting aromatic VOCs into non-volatile sulfonic acid derivatives. However, their effectiveness is closely tied to the anchoring state of the sulfonic acid groups. In this study, two supported sulfonic acids, SSA@CdO and SSA@CaO, were synthesized via the respective reactions of CdO and CaO with chlorosulfonic acid to investigate how the properties of the supports influence sulfonic acid anchoring and reactivity toward o-xylene. Comprehensive characterization and performance tests revealed that sulfonic acid groups on CdO were covalently bonded, forming positively charged sites ([O0.5Cd–O]ɗ−–SO3Hɗ+) with high loading (9.7 mmol/g), enabling excellent o-xylene removal (≥95.6%) and adsorption capacity (51.67–91.59 mg/g) at 130–150 °C. In contrast, ion-paired bonding on CaO formed negatively charged sites ([O0.5Ca]+:OSO3H), which were inactive in electrophilic sulfonation. This work provides new insights for enhancing supported sulfonic acid materials in VOC treatment. Full article
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19 pages, 5709 KiB  
Article
Polystyrene Microplastic Interferes with Yolk Reserve Utilisation in Early Artemia salina Nauplii
by Chiara Maria Motta, Chiara Fogliano, Marco Trifuoggi, Maria Toscanesi, Anja Raggio, Simona Di Marino, Paola Venditti, Gianluca Fasciolo, Bice Avallone and Rosa Carotenuto
Toxics 2025, 13(8), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080700 - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
Polystyrene microfragments are among the most common plastic pollutants globally. They significantly affect aquatic life, harming various organs and tissues. In this study, we examined the effects of 3 µm polystyrene beads (MPs, 20 µg/L) on development and yolk resorption in pre-feeding nauplii [...] Read more.
Polystyrene microfragments are among the most common plastic pollutants globally. They significantly affect aquatic life, harming various organs and tissues. In this study, we examined the effects of 3 µm polystyrene beads (MPs, 20 µg/L) on development and yolk resorption in pre-feeding nauplii of Artemia salina, a lecithotrophic crustacean used in toxicity testing. Results showed a reduced hatching rate, slower growth, and the onset of oxidative stress. Histological analysis revealed no significant morphological alteration; however, yolk platelets lost N-acetyl galactosamine (galNAc), and resorption was delayed. Lectin staining also showed a reduction in N-acetyl glucosamine (glcNAc) in the gut brush border, indicating impaired gut function. Gas chromatography detected the release of nanogram amounts of toxic volatile compounds (VOCs, ethylbenzene, xylene, benzaldehyde, and styrene) into the culture medium. In conclusion, the data demonstrate a delay in larval yolk resorption that can likely be attributed to the release of VOCs, which induce oxidative stress. Further research is urgently needed, given the potential biological and ecological implications of this finding. Full article
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49 pages, 4186 KiB  
Review
A Review of Machine Learning-Assisted Gas Sensor Arrays in Medical Diagnosis
by Yueting Yu, Xin Cao, Chenxi Li, Mingyue Zhou, Tianyu Liu, Jiang Liu and Lu Zhang
Biosensors 2025, 15(8), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15080548 - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in human exhaled breath have emerged as promising biomarkers for non-invasive disease diagnosis. However, traditional VOC detection technology that relies on large instruments is not widely used due to high costs and cumbersome testing processes. Machine learning-assisted gas [...] Read more.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in human exhaled breath have emerged as promising biomarkers for non-invasive disease diagnosis. However, traditional VOC detection technology that relies on large instruments is not widely used due to high costs and cumbersome testing processes. Machine learning-assisted gas sensor arrays offer a compelling alternative by enabling the accurate identification of complex VOC mixtures through collaborative multi-sensor detection and advanced algorithmic analysis. This work systematically reviews the advanced applications of machine learning-assisted gas sensor arrays in medical diagnosis. The types and principles of sensors commonly employed for disease diagnosis are summarized, such as electrochemical, optical, and semiconductor sensors. Machine learning methods that can be used to improve the recognition ability of sensor arrays are systematically listed, including support vector machines (SVM), random forests (RF), artificial neural networks (ANN), and principal component analysis (PCA). In addition, the research progress of sensor arrays combined with specific algorithms in the diagnosis of respiratory, metabolism and nutrition, hepatobiliary, gastrointestinal, and nervous system diseases is also discussed. Finally, we highlight current challenges associated with machine learning-assisted gas sensors and propose feasible directions for future improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI-Enabled Biosensor Technologies for Boosting Medical Applications)
22 pages, 1405 KiB  
Article
Associations Between Indoor Air Pollution and Urinary Volatile Organic Compound Biomarkers in Korean Adults
by Byung-Jun Cho and Seon-Rye Kim
Toxics 2025, 13(8), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13080692 - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are common indoor air pollutants known to pose significant health risks, yet little is known about how internal exposure varies across populations and environments. This study investigated the associations between indoor air pollutants and urinary VOC biomarkers in a [...] Read more.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are common indoor air pollutants known to pose significant health risks, yet little is known about how internal exposure varies across populations and environments. This study investigated the associations between indoor air pollutants and urinary VOC biomarkers in a nationally representative sample. We analyzed data from 1880 adults in the eighth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2020–2021) who completed an indoor air quality (IAQ) survey and provided urine samples, assessing the influence of sociodemographic, behavioral, and environmental factors. Indoor concentrations of PM2.5, CO2, formaldehyde, total VOCs, benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene, xylene, and styrene were measured, alongside the urinary concentrations of nine VOC biomarkers. Associations between pollutants, sociodemographic variables, and biomarkers were evaluated using univariate and multivariable linear regression with Bonferroni correction. Older age, female, lower socioeconomic status (SES), and smoking were associated with higher urinary VOC biomarker concentrations, with smoking showing the strongest associations. Indoor ethylbenzene, styrene, benzene, and CO2 were also associated with multiple metabolites. These findings indicated significant associations between household air pollutants and urinary VOC metabolites, with disparities by age, sex, SES, and smoking status, underscoring the importance of targeted IAQ interventions for vulnerable populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Pollution and Health)
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42 pages, 10386 KiB  
Review
Reconstructing the VOC–Ozone Research Framework Through a Systematic Review of Observation and Modeling
by Xiangwei Zhu, Huiqin Wang, Yi Han, Donghui Zhang, Senhao Liu, Zhijie Zhang and Yansheng Liu
Sustainability 2025, 17(16), 7512; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17167512 - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
Tropospheric ozone (O3), a secondary pollutant of mounting global concern, emerges from complex, nonlinear photochemical reactions involving nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) under dynamically evolving meteorological conditions. Accurately characterizing and effectively regulating O3 formation necessitates [...] Read more.
Tropospheric ozone (O3), a secondary pollutant of mounting global concern, emerges from complex, nonlinear photochemical reactions involving nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) under dynamically evolving meteorological conditions. Accurately characterizing and effectively regulating O3 formation necessitates not only precise and multi-dimensional precursor observations but also modeling frameworks that are structurally coherent, chemically interpretable, and sensitive to regime variability. Despite significant technological progress, current research remains markedly fragmented: observational platforms often operate in isolation with limited vertical and spatial interoperability, while modeling paradigms—ranging from mechanistic chemical transport models (CTMs) to data-driven machine learning approaches—frequently trade interpretability for predictive performance and struggle to capture regime transitions across heterogeneous environments. This review provides a dual-perspective synthesis of recent advances and enduring challenges in the VOC–O3 research landscape. We first establish a typology of ground-based, airborne, and satellite-based VOC monitoring systems, evaluating their capabilities, limitations, and roles within a vertically structured sensing architecture. We then examine the evolution of O3 modeling strategies, from empirical and semi-mechanistic models to hybrid frameworks that integrate physical knowledge with algorithmic flexibility. By diagnosing the structural decoupling between observation and inference, we identify key methodological bottlenecks and advocate for a system-level redesign of the VOC–O3 research paradigm. Finally, we propose a forward-looking framework for next-generation atmospheric governance—one that fuses cross-platform sensing, regime-aware modeling, and policy-relevant diagnostics into an integrated, adaptive, and chemically robust decision-support system. Full article
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17 pages, 2291 KiB  
Article
Gamma Irradiation Enhances the In Vitro Biocontrol Potential of Trichoderma Species Against Major Rice Pathogens Rhizoctonia solani and Pyricularia oryzae
by Bang Diep Tran, Huyen Thanh Tran, Dang Sang Hoang, Hong Nhung Tran, Ngoc Khanh Linh Dao, Xuan Vinh Le, Xuan An Tran, Hong Duong Nguyen, Thi Thu Hong Le and Thi Huyen Do
Appl. Biosci. 2025, 4(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/applbiosci4030041 - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
Improving the efficacy of microbial biocontrol agents is a pivotal strategy for sustainable management of rice blast and sheath blight caused by Pyricularia oryzae and Rhizoctonia solani, respectively, in Vietnam. In this study, Trichoderma sp. TVN-A0 and Trichoderma sp. TVN-H0 were irradiated [...] Read more.
Improving the efficacy of microbial biocontrol agents is a pivotal strategy for sustainable management of rice blast and sheath blight caused by Pyricularia oryzae and Rhizoctonia solani, respectively, in Vietnam. In this study, Trichoderma sp. TVN-A0 and Trichoderma sp. TVN-H0 were irradiated by gamma to generate mutants for screening the enhanced antagonistic activity against P. oryzae and R. solani. The potential mutants were screened by antifungal metabolite production via the cellophane membrane assay (ICM), antagonistic performance through dual culture confrontation assays (IDC), volatile organic compound bioassays (IVOCs), and chitinase activity. As a result, among five potential mutants derived from each wild-type strain (AM1-AM5 and HM1-HM5), mutant AM2 originated from TVN-A0, and mutant HM2 derived from TVN-H0 demonstrated the highest inhibition rates and chitinase activities. The AM2 exhibited ICM of 96.71% against R. solani, 92.57% against P. oryzae, IDC of 87.76%, and IVOCs of 83.57%, while HM2 possessed ICM of 95.33% against R. solani, 85.28% against P. oryzae, IDC of 91.24%, and IVOCs of 79.33%. The genetic differences among mutants and their parents were investigated by RAPD. The non-GMO AM2 and HM2 mutants are promising candidates for biocontrol of the diseases caused by P. oryzae and R. solani in Vietnam. Full article
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30 pages, 2315 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Development of a Clean-Label Vegan Burger Enriched with Fermented Microalgae
by Joseane C. Bassani, Valter F. R. Martins, Joana Barbosa, Marta Coelho, Clara Sousa, Juliana Steffens, Geciane T. Backes, Hugo Pereira, Manuela E. Pintado, Paula C. Teixeira, Alcina M. M. B. Morais and Rui M. S. C. Morais
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2884; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162884 - 20 Aug 2025
Abstract
Haematococcus pluvialis and Porphyridium cruentum are red microalgae with high biotechnological potential due to their rich composition of bioactive compounds. However, their intense flavor limits their application in food products. This study evaluated the impact of fermentation with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (30 °C for [...] Read more.
Haematococcus pluvialis and Porphyridium cruentum are red microalgae with high biotechnological potential due to their rich composition of bioactive compounds. However, their intense flavor limits their application in food products. This study evaluated the impact of fermentation with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (30 °C for 48 h; LAB-to-biomass ratio of 0.1:1; 106 CFU/mL) on the physicochemical and functional properties of H. pluvialis and P. cruentum biomasses. Particular attention was given to antioxidant activity (ABTS and ORAC assays), color, amino acid profiles, and volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles, all of which may influence sensory characteristics. Results demonstrated that non-fermented H. pluvialis exhibited significantly higher antioxidant activity (AA) than P. cruentum. After fermentation, H. pluvialis showed an ABTS value of 3.22 ± 0.35 and an ORAC value of 54.32 ± 1.79 µmol TE/100 mg DW, while P. cruentum showed an ABTS of 0.26 ± 0.00 and an ORAC of 3.11 ± 0.13 µmol TE/100 mg DW. Total phenolic content (TPC) of fermented H. pluvialis and P. cruentum was 1.08 ± 0.23 and 0.18 ± 0.026 mg GAE/100 mg DW, respectively. Both AA and TPC increased after fermentation. Fermentation also significantly affected biomass color. FTIR analysis showed intensification of protein and carbohydrate vibrational bands post-fermentation. GC-MS analysis of VOCs showed that P. cruentum contained 42 VOCs before fermentation, including trans-β-ionone, 4-ethyl-6-hepten-3-one, hexanal, and heptadienal, which are responsible for fishy and algal odors. Fermentation with Lb. plantarum significantly reduced these compounds, lowering trans-β-ionone to 0.1453 mg/L and eliminating 4-ethyl-6-hepten-3-one entirely. H. pluvialis contained 22 VOCs pre-fermentation; fermentation eliminated hexanal and reduced heptadienal to 0.1747 ± 0.0323 mg/L. These changes contributed to improved sensory profiles. Fermentation also induced significant changes in the amino acid profiles of both microalgae. The fermented biomasses were incorporated into vegan burgers made from chickpea, lentil, and quinoa. Color evaluation showed more stable and visually appealing tones, while texture remained within desirable consumer parameters. These findings suggest that Lb. plantarum fermentation is an effective strategy for improving the sensory and functional characteristics of microalgal biomass, promoting their use as sustainable, value-added ingredients in innovative plant-based foods. Full article
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20 pages, 5937 KiB  
Article
Verticillium-like Anamorphic Fungi in Sordariomycetes from Southwestern China: Two New Taxa and a New Record
by Quan-Ying Dong, Shun-Yu Gao, Jin-Na Zhou, Cheng-Dong Xu, Zhen-Ji Wang and Nian-Kai Zeng
J. Fungi 2025, 11(8), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11080598 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 215
Abstract
Verticillium-like fungi within the Sordariomycetes hold significant ecological and economic importance, especially in biocontrol. This study describes two novel species, Leptobacillium gasaense and Ovicillium yunnanense, and provides DNA sequence data and identification keys for the genera Leptobacillium and Ovicillium. The [...] Read more.
Verticillium-like fungi within the Sordariomycetes hold significant ecological and economic importance, especially in biocontrol. This study describes two novel species, Leptobacillium gasaense and Ovicillium yunnanense, and provides DNA sequence data and identification keys for the genera Leptobacillium and Ovicillium. The genus Muscodor, known for its considerable biotechnological value, comprises endophytes characterized by sterile mycelia that produce antibiotic volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Historically, the classification of Muscodor has relied on culture characteristics, VOC chemical profiles, and molecular phylogenetic analyses. However, culture characteristics and VOC profiles lack a definitive diagnostic value. Although asexual morphological traits are crucial for genus-level classification, no conidiogenous structures have been observed in Muscodor. Here, we report the asexual morphological characteristics of Muscodor and describe M. coffeanus as a new record in China, supported by both its asexual morphology and molecular phylogenetic evidence. Full article
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20 pages, 9076 KiB  
Article
Effects of Sugar Impregnation Methods on Physicochemical Properties and Flavor Profiles of Prune Preserves Using GC-IMS and Electronic Tongue
by Qingping Du, Rui Yang, Wei Wang, Wei Li, Tongle Sun, Shihao Huang, Xinyao Han and Mingxun Ai
Foods 2025, 14(16), 2852; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14162852 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 250
Abstract
Thermal impregnation (TI) is a traditional method of sugar infusion, but it has disadvantages such as long processing time and uneven sugar distribution. Therefore, developing sugar impregnation methods to enhance product flavor, nutritional value, and processing efficiency is critical for addressing potential quality [...] Read more.
Thermal impregnation (TI) is a traditional method of sugar infusion, but it has disadvantages such as long processing time and uneven sugar distribution. Therefore, developing sugar impregnation methods to enhance product flavor, nutritional value, and processing efficiency is critical for addressing potential quality loss and efficiency bottlenecks in traditional preserve processing technologies. This study took the TI process widely adopted in Xinjiang over the long term as a reference and systematically compared the effects of vacuum impregnation (VI) and ultrasonic-assisted impregnation (UI) on the flavor characteristics and physicochemical properties of plum preserves. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were identified using gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) coupled with multivariate analysis, while taste attributes were quantified via electronic tongue (E-tongue). Physicochemical parameters, including titratable acidity (TA), browning index (BI), color parameters (L*, a*, b*), total polyphenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and texture profile analysis (TPA), were also evaluated. GC-IMS identified 60 VOCs, predominantly comprising aldehydes (20), alcohols (10), ketones (6), acids (4), esters (3), furans (3), ketols (2), and unidentified compounds (12). The VI-treated samples exhibited distinct aromatic profiles, retaining a higher proportion of key volatile compounds. E-tongue results showed that VI significantly enhanced sourness, umami, and aftertaste complexity compared with UI and TI (p < 0.05). Physicochemical analyses showed that VI maximally preserved bioactive compounds, with a TPC of 1.23 ± 0.07 mg GAE/g and TFC of 17.55 ± 0.81 mg RE/g. Additionally, VI minimized enzymatic browning (BI: 0.37 ± 0.03), maintained color brightness (L*: 31.85 ± 1.56), maintained favorable textural properties (hardness: 187.63 ± 4.04 N), and retained the highest TA content (0.77 ± 0.05%). In contrast, UI and TI led to significant quality degradation, characterized by pronounced browning and texture deterioration: the BI values were 0.61 ± 0.02 (UI) and 0.83 ± 0.03 (TI), and hardness values were 176.53 ± 5.81 N (UI) and 156.25 ± 4.55 N (TI). These findings provide critical references for sugar impregnation techniques and a scientific basis for flavor regulation in prune preserve production. Full article
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17 pages, 4237 KiB  
Article
Controlled Release of D-Limonene from Biodegradable Films with Enzymatic Treatment
by Viktor Nakonechnyi, Viktoriia Havryliak and Vira Lubenets
Polymers 2025, 17(16), 2238; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17162238 - 17 Aug 2025
Viewed by 227
Abstract
The instability of many volatile organic compounds (VOCs) limits their usage in different fragrance carriers and products. In scratch-and-sniff applications, VOCs are bound so strongly that release cannot happen without an external trigger. On the other hand, other fixatives like cyclodextrins release unstable [...] Read more.
The instability of many volatile organic compounds (VOCs) limits their usage in different fragrance carriers and products. In scratch-and-sniff applications, VOCs are bound so strongly that release cannot happen without an external trigger. On the other hand, other fixatives like cyclodextrins release unstable volatile molecules too rapidly. We engineered biodegradable gelatin films whose release profile can be tuned by glycerol plasticization and alkaline protease degradation. Digitalized VOC release profiles acquired with the described near-real-time analysis toolkit are digital twins that replicate the behavior of the evaluated films in silico. Seven formulations were cast from 10% gelatin containing D-limonene, glycerol (5%, 20%), protease-C 30 kU mL−1, and samples with additional water to establish a higher hydromodule for protease catalytic activity. Release profiles were monitored for nine days at 23 ± 2 °C in parallel by metal-oxide semiconductor (MOS) e-noses, gravimetric weight loss, and near-infrared measurements (NIR). These continuous measurements were cross-checked with gel electrophoresis, FTIR spectroscopy, hardness tests, and sensory intensity ratings. Results showed acceleration of VOC release by enzymatic treatment during the first days, as well as overall impact on the release profile. Differences in low and high glycerol films were observed, and principal component analysis of NIR spectra separated low and high glycerol groups, mirroring the MOS and FTIR data. Usability of MOS data was explored in comparison to more biased and subjective intensity results from sensory panel evaluation. Overall, the created toolkit showed good cross-checked results and enabled the possibility for close to real-time analysis for bio-based VOC carriers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polymer Thin Films and Their Applications)
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14 pages, 681 KiB  
Article
Breathprint-Based Endotyping of COPD and Bronchiectasis COPD Overlap Using Electronic Nose Technology: A Prospective Observational Study
by Vitaliano Nicola Quaranta, Mariafrancesca Grimaldi, Silvano Dragonieri, Alessio Marinelli, Andrea Portacci, Maria Rosaria Vulpi and Giovanna Elisiana Carpagnano
Chemosensors 2025, 13(8), 311; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors13080311 - 16 Aug 2025
Viewed by 266
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a heterogeneous syndrome with multiple clinical and inflammatory phenotypes. The coexistence of bronchiectasis, known as bronchiectasis–COPD overlap (BCO), identifies a subgroup with increased morbidity and mortality. Non-invasive breath analysis using electronic noses (e-noses) has shown promise in [...] Read more.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a heterogeneous syndrome with multiple clinical and inflammatory phenotypes. The coexistence of bronchiectasis, known as bronchiectasis–COPD overlap (BCO), identifies a subgroup with increased morbidity and mortality. Non-invasive breath analysis using electronic noses (e-noses) has shown promise in identifying disease-specific volatile organic compound (VOC) patterns (“breathprints”). Our aim was to evaluate the ability of an e-nose to differentiate between COPD and BCO patients, and to assess its utility in detecting inflammatory endotypes (neutrophilic vs. eosinophilic). In a monocentric, prospective, real-life study, 98 patients were enrolled over nine months. Forty-two patients had radiologically confirmed BCO, while fifty-six had COPD without bronchiectasis. Exhaled breath samples were analyzed using the Cyranose 320 e-nose. Principal component analysis (PCA) and discriminant analysis were used to identify group-specific breathprints and inflammatory profiles. PCA revealed significant breathprint differences between BCO and COPD (p = 0.021). Discriminant analysis yielded an overall accuracy of 69.6% (AUC 0.768, p = 0.037). The highest classification performance (76.8%) was achieved when distinguishing eosinophilic COPD from neutrophilic BCO. These findings suggest distinct inflammatory profiles that may be captured non-invasively. E-nose technology holds potential for the non-invasive endotyping of COPD, especially in identifying neutrophilic BCO as a unique inflammatory entity. Breathomics may support early, personalized treatment strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Detection of Volatile Organic Compounds in Complex Mixtures)
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19 pages, 7660 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Photochemical Loss on the Source Apportionment of Ambient Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Their Ozone Formation Potential in the Fenwei Plain, Northern China
by Yanan Tao, Qi Xiong, Yawei Dong, Jiayin Zhang, Lei Cao, Min Zhu, Qiaoqiao Wang and Jianwei Gu
Atmosphere 2025, 16(8), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16080970 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 463
Abstract
The Fenwei Plain (FWP), one of China’s most polluted regions, has experienced severe ozone (O3) pollution in recent years. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), key O3 precursors, undergo significant photochemical degradation, yet their loss and the implications for source apportionment and [...] Read more.
The Fenwei Plain (FWP), one of China’s most polluted regions, has experienced severe ozone (O3) pollution in recent years. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), key O3 precursors, undergo significant photochemical degradation, yet their loss and the implications for source apportionment and ozone formation potential (OFP) in this region remain unclear. This study conducted summertime VOC measurements in two industrial cities in the FWP, Hancheng (HC) and Xingping (XP), to quantify photochemical losses of VOCs and assessed their impact on source attribution and OFP with photochemical age-based parameterization methods. Significant VOC photochemical losses were observed, averaging 3.6 ppbv (7.1% of initial concentrations) in HC and 1.9 ppbv (5.6%) in XP, with alkenes experiencing the highest depletion (22–30%). Source apportionment based on both initial (corrected) and observed concentrations revealed that industrial sources (e.g., coking, coal washing, and rubber manufacturing) dominated ambient VOCs. Ignoring photochemical losses underestimated contributions from natural gas combustion and biogenic sources, while it overestimated the secondary source. OFP calculated with lost VOCs (OFPloss) reached 34 ppbv in HC and 15 ppbv in XP, representing 20% and 25% of OFP based on observed concentrations, respectively, with reactive alkenes accounting for over 90% of OFPloss. The results highlight the importance of accounting for VOC photochemical losses for accurate source identification and developing effective O3 control strategies in the FWP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Quality)
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19 pages, 5512 KiB  
Article
The Effects of Microencapsulation Technology on the Flavor Quality of Zanthoxylum Oil Based on E-Nose, GC–IMS, and GC–MS
by Liangyun Wang, Jia Chen, Xuemei Cai, Dandan Li, Xinxin Zhao, Yu Fu, Lei Huang, Yi Rao, Yuwen Yi, Mingfeng Qiao and Baohe Miao
Molecules 2025, 30(16), 3366; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30163366 - 13 Aug 2025
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Abstract
To investigate the impact of microencapsulation on the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Zanthoxylum oil, this study compared unencapsulated Zanthoxylum oil (ZO) with microencapsulated Zanthoxylum oil (MZO) using physicochemical analysis, sensory evaluation, and molecular sensory analysis. Sensory evaluation revealed significant differences in aroma [...] Read more.
To investigate the impact of microencapsulation on the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in Zanthoxylum oil, this study compared unencapsulated Zanthoxylum oil (ZO) with microencapsulated Zanthoxylum oil (MZO) using physicochemical analysis, sensory evaluation, and molecular sensory analysis. Sensory evaluation revealed significant differences in aroma attributes between ZO and MZO, whereas no notable differences were observed in numbing intensity or overall acceptability. Colorimetric analysis indicated significant distinctions between the two samples. Electronic nose (E-nose) analysis demonstrated a reduction in overall aroma intensity for MZO compared to ZO. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) identified 43 VOCs, including 22 compounds present in both samples, accounting for 46.8% of the total. Terpenes represented the predominant class in both ZO (69.7%) and MZO (68.2%). Comprehensive analysis based on odor activity value (OAV) and variable importance in projection (VIP) identified nine volatile compounds as key aroma contributors. Gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (GC–IMS) detected 90 the volatile organic compounds (VOCs), with esters (30.38%) and heterocyclic compounds (10.42%) predominating in ZO, while esters (29.08%) and alcohols (26.12%) were predominant in MZO. Compared to ZO, MZO exhibited increased levels of alcohols (from 12.04% to 26.12%) and terpenes (from 1.39% to 3.53%), but decreased levels of acids (from 5.77% to 2.72%) and aldehydes (from 10.29% to 4.62%). This approach provides a comprehensive assessment of flavor quality before and after microencapsulation, offers a scientific basis for quality control, and facilitates the development and utilization of Zanthoxylum oil resources. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Flavours and Fragrances)
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